In order to maximize the information obtained from the risk needs assessment, the OYA is working with the University of Oregon’s Department of Education to better distinguish the risk to re-offend for those youth classified within the “high” risk category (i.e. “high-high” risk versus “high-moderate” risk). In addition, the goal of the three-year study is to determine which items on the risk needs instrument serve as better predictors of recidivism, and which shows little or no relationship to outcomes. Recent literature in best practices in the field of juvenile justice emphasizes the importance of using a standardized risk/needs assessment instrument as the first step in effective treatment planning.

The Oregon Youth Authority has demonstrated its commitment to this research-supported practice by creating agency performance measures to ensure progress in the area of assessment. Two of the agency’s 15 Key Performance Measures (KPM) specifically monitor assessment:

KPM #6: The percentage of youth who received an OYA Risk/Needs Assessment within 60 days of commitment or admission

KPM #7: The percentage of youth committed to OYA for more than 60 days whose records indicate active domains in an OYA case plan identified in the OYA RNA

These critical performance measures focusing on standardized assessment are reviewed regularly by supervisors and several committees, including the Statewide Quality Improvement Committee and the agency’s Evidence-Based Initiatives Group. The goal of this review is to help ensure this effective practice is maintained.